The UK faces the huge and complex task of registering over 3.6 million EU nationals ahead of Brexit so they can apply for ‘settled status’. It says a new, digital system will make the process much easier.

In an exclusive preview of the new system, BI spoke to a person tasked with test-running the new registration app which is being designed to register EU citizens — which is still in its testing phase.

“The app will be able to scan passports with biometric chips which instantly upload a user’s data to the cloud. But there will also be non-digital options available, the Home Office said, likely to be similar to the ones that currently exist for visa extensions and permanent citizenship applications.

That said, the app will be an important part of the registration process for many people as it will allow those with the right technology to identify themselves almost instantly. One EU citizen asked to test-run the app, which remains in its pilot phase, told BI how it currently works:

1. When you open the app, you will be asked to answer some basic questions: Your name, whether you’re an EU national, whether you live in the UK, and whether you have a criminal record.

2. You will then be asked to provide documentation proving your identity. If your passport contains a biometric chip, you will be able to scan it using an Android phone’s built-in scanning software. Apple doesn’t allow third-party apps to use that software, which means the app won’t work on iPhones, a problem the Home Office revealed in a meeting with MEPs this week.

The person who tested the app said their passport was recognised and scanned by the phone almost instantly.

3. You will then be asked to take a selfie, which appears to be for the purpose of verifying that you are who say you are.

If you are unable to access an Android phone, it will be possible to revert to more old-fashioned methods of proving your identity, such as posting a passport or ID card to a processing centre.”

Home Office Brexit app only works for Android users

“The WorldReach part of the contract is for the smartphone technology ‘to develop a secure and easy-to-use digital solution’. WorldReach specialises in providing immigration apps that use a smartphone NFC reader to scan the chips in passports.”

About WorldReach

WorldReach Software works with national governments to help them:

Remotely and securely verify individuals and authenticate their identity documents

Improve the security and facilitation of immigration and border management services for those travelling into a country